Advancing food safety in Nigeria through next-generation sequencing – Expert

A leading expert in food safety and microbiology, Nuradeen Yusuf Garba, has emphasized the need for Nigeria to integrate Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) technology into its food safety framework. In an exclusive interview, Yusuf highlighted how NGS could revolutionize the detection, tracking, and mitigation of foodborne pathogens, significantly reducing the burden of foodborne illnesses in the country.

As Nigeria grapples with food safety challenges ranging from microbial contamination to antimicrobial resistance (AMR), experts like Yusuf are at the forefront of research that could reshape the country’s approach to food regulation.

His work on applying NGS in food microbiology has been pivotal in identifying emerging pathogens and monitoring foodborne disease outbreaks.

One of Yusuf’s recent studies, “Harnessing Next-Generation Sequencing for Food Safety in Africa and Nigeria,” explores how genomic technology can enhance food safety surveillance. The research demonstrates how NGS can detect multiple pathogens in a single test, trace contamination sources with high precision, and monitor antibiotic resistance genes in food products.

“Food safety remains a major challenge in Nigeria, with traditional monitoring methods proving inadequate in addressing modern risks. Next-Generation Sequencing presents a transformative solution, allowing us to rapidly identify foodborne pathogens and track their origins before they cause widespread outbreaks,” Yusuf stated.

Groundbreaking Research and Policy Implications

Yusuf’s research has revealed concerning findings about foodborne viral and bacterial contamination in Nigeria. His work has shown that pathogens like Norovirus, Salmonella, and Listeria monocytogenes persist in food products due to poor hygiene, weak regulatory enforcement, and inadequate surveillance systems.

In a study published in the Brazilian Journal of Science, Yusuf and his team investigated the antifungal activity of Mahogany (Khaya senegalensis) leaf extract against food-contaminating fungi. The study found that the plant extract exhibited strong inhibitory effects on fungal growth, suggesting its potential as a natural food preservative.

Beyond laboratory research, Yusuf has been actively involved in policy discussions, working with regulatory bodies such as the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) and the Standards Organization of Nigeria (SON) to promote the adoption of NGS-based food safety monitoring. His recommendations have been instrumental in shaping emerging policies on antimicrobial resistance surveillance and foodborne pathogen detection.

A Call for Action: Implementing NGS in Nigeria

Yusuf emphasizes that for NGS to be effectively utilized in Nigeria’s food safety system, strategic investments and collaborative efforts are required. They outline key steps the country must take:

• Establishing NGS-equipped laboratories within universities, research centers, and food regulatory agencies.

• Training scientists and regulators on how to implement NGS for routine food safety monitoring.

• Strengthening food safety regulations to mandate NGS-based pathogen surveillance in food industries.

• Fostering public-private partnerships to encourage adoption of NGS in the Nigerian food industry.

“Foodborne diseases not only threaten public health but also impact economic growth by limiting Nigeria’s ability to export agricultural products to international markets. By embracing Next-Generation Sequencing, we can enhance consumer confidence, reduce outbreaks, and align our food safety standards with global best practices,” Yusuf asserted.

The Future of Food Safety in Nigeria

With their expertise, research contributions, and commitment to advancing food safety, Yusuf continues to shape Nigeria’s public health landscape. Their advocacy for NGS adoption is a crucial step toward creating a safer, more resilient food system in Nigeria.

As the global food industry moves toward more advanced diagnostic tools, Nigeria stands at a crossroads either to embrace cutting-edge technology or risk being left behind. Yusuf’s research and policy recommendations offer a roadmap for ensuring that food safety in Nigeria meets international standards, protecting both consumers and the nation’s economy.